Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention

Hearing loss isn't visible like other injuries, but it remains a serious health issue in today's workplaces.

Whether you use leaf blowers outdoors or work indoors around industrial machinery or barking dogs, loud noise during work activities can permanently damage your hearing and cause persistent ringing in your ears (tinnitus). Excess noise may add risk for dangerous workplace safety accidents when it interferes with communication and concentration.

These impacts can also negatively affect productivity and create unnecessary costs to individuals and businesses.

Prevention begins with identifying noise sources and evaluating workers' exposures to find out if noise exposure is hazardous. When a hazard is found, employers are required to make changes to reduce or eliminate the noise hazard and educate the workforce about noise and hearing conservation. If the noise problem persists, further testing and protective measures are required.